Fabrizio Romano has revealed Aston Villa’s next major transfer priority, with Unai Emery’s side turning their attention towards signing a new right-back.
Villa are preparing to announce Matteo Ruggeri following an agreement with Atlético Madrid for the Italian left-back, but their defensive rebuild is not expected to stop there.
Romano reported on Friday morning that Villa will now focus their efforts on another full-back, describing their interest in West Ham United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka as “genuine and concrete”.
Aston Villa transfer focus switches to right-back
Ruggeri’s arrival will strengthen the left side following Lucas Digne’s departure, leaving Villa to address the opposite flank before the transfer window closes.
Wan-Bissaka has emerged as one of the leading options.
ReadAstonVilla reported earlier this week that Aston Villa had moved ahead of Arsenal in the race for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, with the former Manchester United defender keen on a Premier League return.
talkSPORT has since reported that Villa have held talks with West Ham over a possible deal, with the Championship club valuing the 28-year-old at around £25million.
Wan-Bissaka would provide experienced competition for Matty Cash and has made more than 200 Premier League appearances during spells with Crystal Palace, Manchester United and West Ham.
Romano’s latest update is significant because it confirms right-back is now becoming a priority rather than simply another position Villa are monitoring.
With Ruggeri’s move expected to be announced soon, another full-back could therefore become the next major piece of Emery’s summer rebuild.
